By Matt Haynes
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THE HEIR APPARITION: Reece (Guitar, Vocals), Adam (Lead Guitars), Jake (Bass), Chris (Drums)
‘New year, who dis?’ comes to mind for this next review as I revisit a band that uses their craft to bring deep story telling and emotional character building to live. Through their first offering ‘Part I – Broken Crowns’, we met Elo and followed the tragic story of his death and what was to follow.
Now, the Manchester Prog-Rockers offer us a new story in standalone single ‘The Others’, this time introducing Daedalus Grim – a character haunted by his past as he shifts between universes as part of his journey. A track that focuses on cycles of destruction and self-reinvention, the track comes at a fitting time as we meet The Heir Apparition with a new line-up and a much stronger focus on creating music that reflects their own reinvention and commitment to enhancing their skills.
Whilst the track still maintains the traditional ‘Coheed & Cambria’ energy and flair found in previous tracks, ‘The Others’ offers a diversion into more heavier and powerful rock vibes found in the likes of ‘Queens of the Stone Age’. Switching between harmonies and punchy riffs, ‘The Others’ shows a more aggressive side of the band without having to utilise low tunings or harsh vocals. Instead, its an aggression in commanding presence and pushing the boundaries within themselves – conveying the concept that the band don’t want to rely on the same ideas over and over again until it becomes stale.
This newer energy is also reflected in the accompanying music video. No flashy gimmicks. No fancy effects. It’s a video of the band performing the track during a recent performance, highlighting the energy and joy they have in bringing their creation to life. Whether it’s the look on the band’s faces or the body language, you can sense a fresh boost of life in the project and an eagerness to push themselves to the next level.
Within the music itself, I’ve already mentioned the bounce of harmonies and punchy riffs. This is re-iterated through the intricate guitar lines found amongst the verse and chorus courtesy of Reece and Adam, whilst the harsher bass-line from Jake provides groove and depth. Of course, this is all met by the precise timing on the drums courtesy of Chris, notifying the listener to the shifts in dynamic and pace whilst keeping the band tight and on time. Splash vocalist Reece’s matching vocals on the top, and you have an ear-worm for days that will keep the story of The Heir Apparition fresh whilst we await the next chapter of Elo’s story
The Heir Apparition have kicked off their 2026 with a bang, and show signs of much more to come. This is a band who aren’t afraid of variation in their music and themes, and are more than ready to build an even bigger world with deeper stories and emotionally charged characters.
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